Tips to Maintain Good Communications with Your Spouse During a Divorce

good communication divorce spouse

Divorce with your spouse not going well? Good communication plays important role for a happier outcome

good communication divorce spouseIt would seem to go without saying, that good communication between a couple is an essential part of a good marriage. However, did you know that good communication between the two spouses is just as important when navigating the often turbulent waters during a divorce? As a married couple you may have had good communication, or perhaps your lack of communication was one of the reasons for the divorce.

No matter what has happened in the past it is important to be able to communicate with your soon to be ex. You may be experiencing sadness, anger, stress, frustration, among other emotions, but by establishing an effective means of communication is an important part to help the process move on more smoothly.

You might be tempted to minimize contact with your ex, however this is not the way to go. If children are involved you will have to communicate with your spouse for many years to come. However, if you were married to an abusive person or if there is a restraining order involved, then it is vital you consult with … Read More... “Tips to Maintain Good Communications with Your Spouse During a Divorce”

Estate Planning Tips for Same-Sex Couples

Statutory Protections In Estate Planning Now Available To Surviving Spouses Of Same-Sex Marriages

estate planning same-sexNow that the institution of marriage has been sanctioned for same-sex couples, estate planning options and benefits that have not been available before can now be utilized to protect and provide for spouses in same-sex marriages.

Surviving spouses have always been provided certain statutory rights to a deceased spouse’s estate so that they are not completely disinherited.  A surviving spouse is entitled to a “family allowance,” usually the first $40,000 of the deceased spouse’s estate.  The surviving spouse is also entitled to the first two automobiles of the deceased spouse, unless specifically bequeathed to someone else.  The surviving spouse may live in the marital residence rent-free for one year.  The surviving spouse has the option to purchase the marital residence.  The surviving spouse can elect to take against the will.  These are just some of the statutory protections now available to surviving spouses of same-sex marriages.

Although Ohio no longer has an estate tax, the federal estate (or inheritance) tax exists.  Surviving spouses have always been able to utilize the federal estate tax credit of a predeceased spouse, either through a Marital Credit-Shelter Trust, use of a … Read More... “Estate Planning Tips for Same-Sex Couples”

Spy on My Spouse? Is It Legal In My Marriage?

Avoid Legal Trouble, Consult With An Experienced Family Attorney Before You Spy On Your Spouse!

spyA husband or wife can get themselves into some messy legal situations when they spy on their spouse.  Often, the best way to combat this situation is through communication.  Clearly, if you’re suspecting your spouse of somehow breaking the marriage vows, then you’re faced with trying to improve communications (at the very least).  Perhaps entering into marriage counseling together would be beneficial.  If these efforts have failed, there are a few steps you can take to avoid criminal situations when it comes to spying on your spouse.

  1. Tape-Recording:
    Tape recording is a tricky technique to master.  The Federal Wiretapping laws allow for some type of recording, but in order to satisfy this statute and avoid criminal prosecution, you must follow specific steps.   You have to make sure that you’re only recording your spouse in conversations to which you’re a party.  You CANNOT record your spouse speaking with another person.
  2. In Home Surveillance:
    Videotaping inside your home is permissible under the law.   This situation has arisen in a few cases in Ohio, and the courts seem to have a hazy grasp on it.  In some
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